WORK IN PROGRESS: An Integrated DSP and Embedded Microcontroller Laboratory Curriculum

In this paper, we present our ongoing effort and progress in developing digital signal processing (DSP) laboratory coursework based on an embedded microcontroller (MCU)-based development platform. In particular, the MCU platform adopted for the DSP course uses the same ARM Cortex-M4 platform used in our embedded systems courses at Western Washington University. The goals of this work are twofold. One, by reducing student time spent on learning new development hardware and software, additional concepts can be introduced in the lab and enhanced learning outcomes can be added to the DSP course. Two, by introducing DSP implementation in embedded MCUs, student success in completing DSP-based capstone projects that meet realistic design constraints will be improved. Learning outcomes and assessment measures are introduced to determine the success of the work. If shown to be successful, this work may be adapted to the EE curricula in other institutions and may be adopted in other curricular areas such as controls and communications.